Such Was the Season

This comic novel about a black Atlanta family is narrated by Annie Eliza, the clan's matriarch. Shrewd, earthy, full of street smarts, Annie Eliza provides a running commentary not only on her own brood but also on behind-the-scenes city politicking. Her son Jeremiah is a respected minister, her daughter-in-law Renee is preparing to run for the state senate, and Annie Eliza knows everybody. The narrative deftly intertwines two story lines: in the first, Juneboy, a successful physician, returns to Atlanta to deliver a scholarly paper and in the process discover his roots; the second concerns Renee's disastrous candidacy, torpedoed when her vow to stamp out corruption unwittingly discloses scandal in her own back yard. Annie Eliza is an endearing character whose voice rings true. Major, who won the Western States Book Award for My Amputations, presents his narrative with wit and style. (September 7)